The Lightweight Travel Trailer Becomes a Friend to Environmentalists
The bigger is better attitude that was born with the advent of SUVs and McMansions started to fade as consumers became more aware of the effects they were having on the environment. As a response to consumer demand, lightweight travel trailers began to spring up, giving people a way to enjoy the outdoors without having to buy an enormous RV.
Lightweight travel trailers have been on the market for a while, but recently their popularity has been growing as people are traveling closer to home and looking for ways to save on vacation travel expenses. Lightweight travel trailers are relatively inexpensive, and able to hitch onto a mid-size vehicle. Size ranges from six feet to sixteen offering ample space for families, or comfort for one.
Those who like to hit the road alone will appreciate the convenience of these lightweight models as it allows them a place to crash before they head out onto the trail, get ready to tackle big walls, or catch the next wave. Some lightweight travel trailers sleep four, but most fit singles or couples, or a four legged friend. The more extensive lightweight travel trailers have kitchens and showers, while others come with a bed and some storage space.
The newest models of lightweight travel trailers can be pulled by a mid-sized vehicle. In the past you needed to own an SUV or pick-up truck in order to own any sort of trailer. As well, their new design makes them more aerodynamic, so wind friction doesn’t eat into fuel costs.
While most trailers resemble mini-RVs, the pop-up trailer is more akin to a tent than an RV. They are usually made of a type of canvas that can be packed down for minimal storage. With a place to cook food and shower, these pop-up trailers are a great way to spend family vacations visiting National Parks and Monuments.
Teardrop trailers also offer a variety of styles, with the smallest at about six feet that are set up with a bed and not much more. A few cabinets are great for stowing gear or treasures collected along the way. These lightweight travel trailers can go anywhere a car can go and may become man’s best friend on outdoor adventures as far as reliability for a good night’s sleep goes.
Road travel can save more than half the cost of flying and staying in a hotel, especially when family is included, reports GoRVing.com. Recycling water and installing solar panels can stretch the environmental conservation even further.
Lightweight travel trailers are a great companion for outdoorsy people. Trailers can be a starting and stopping point for the next great adventure. You can bring extra gear and decide whether or not you need it when you get to the trailhead.
The latest RV shows found an increased interest in lightweight travel trailers. There’s a new generation of people becoming interested in RVs and the companies that cater towards the environmentally friendly crowd are seeing a spike in sales.
Lightweight travel trailers are here to stay. Whether you buy new or used, the benefits they offer will only enhance any trip you take.
Contributed by Jim Tolar. For more information on RVs or the RVing lifestyle, visit Beaudry RV, recognized leader in the RV industry.
